Felony
A serious criminal offense punishable by more than one year in state prison.
A felony is the most serious category of crime in Minnesota. Felonies are punishable by a sentence of more than one year in state prison, along with potential fines. Examples include murder, robbery, burglary, certain drug offenses, and serious assault.
Minnesota classifies crimes into three levels: felonies (most serious), gross misdemeanors (punishable by up to one year in jail), and misdemeanors (punishable by up to 90 days in jail). The specific sentence for a felony depends on the offense and the defendant’s criminal history, guided by the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines.
Why it matters: A felony conviction carries consequences that extend far beyond the prison sentence. It can affect your right to vote (while incarcerated or on supervised release), your ability to own firearms, your employment prospects, your housing options, and your eligibility for certain professional licenses. Some of these consequences last long after the sentence is served.
Example: A person is charged with a felony for theft of property worth more than $5,000. If convicted, they face a potential prison sentence, a permanent criminal record, and the collateral consequences that come with a felony conviction.
Criminal cases involving serious charges such as assault, burglary, drug offenses, or fraud